Critters part II

Last weekend was another critterful weekend at the Lodge.

For the first time we've had regular loon sightings on the lake!

No. Not those loons.

This loon! He (assuming it's a he?) has been travelling up and down the West side of the island between West Grape Island and the North Shore. Did you know the North American name "loon" likely comes from either the Old English word lumme, meaning lummox or awkward person, or the Scandinavian word lum meaning lame or clumsy? Either way, the name refers to the loon’s poor ability to walk on land. [thank you wikipedia]. Here, listen to some loons while you continue reading.

In addition to our friend Lummox the Loon, we spotted a mallard paddling around between docks.

This cute little chipmunk was scrounging for some snacks at the base of the deck. He's clever. They way the kids eat their trail mix, there are probably all kinds of peanuts and seeds scattered around down there.

A gross critter discovery occurred when I went to get the bag of grout out of Peaky. As I lifted it up I was greeted by a "puff!" of feathers. Looking down, I spotted the rest of the bird that expired in the bunky at some point. I've no idea how it got in there, or even how long it's been there. Gyehhhh... .*heebieshudder* Handy Dad removed it with a shovel and made it go away. *shudder*

The lilacs at the cottage are in full bloom. They smell so heavenly! The bumble bees are also enjoying them, and I was able to catch one visiting the flowers.

Arguably the most pathetic creature at the lodge, this is Mum's dog, Maggie (my adopted dog sister, I guess?) sitting in her doggie bed perched on a rocking chair. Pathetic creature.